H.R.1797 - Employment Services and Jobs Parity Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1797, the Employment Services and Jobs Parity Act, seeks to amend the Wagner-Peyser Act to include the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and American Samoa in its provisions. This inclusion would extend federal employment services and job training programs to these territories. The bill aims to provide these areas with resources comparable to those available in other U.S. territories.
Expected Effects
The likely effect of this bill is increased access to employment services and job training programs for residents of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and American Samoa. This could lead to improved employment rates and economic opportunities in these regions. Furthermore, the bill could also result in adjustments to the allocation of federal funds for employment services.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Access to Employment Services: Residents of the Northern Mariana Islands and American Samoa would gain access to a wider range of employment services.
- Job Training Opportunities: The bill would provide increased access to job training programs, enhancing skills and employability.
- Economic Development: By improving employment rates, the bill could contribute to the economic development of these territories.
- Parity with Other Territories: The bill aims to create parity in access to federal resources compared to Guam and the Virgin Islands.
- Potential for Increased Federal Funding: The bill includes provisions for increased funding based on future budget increases.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential Strain on Existing Resources: The inclusion of new territories could strain existing resources allocated under the Wagner-Peyser Act.
- Administrative Challenges: Implementing the program in new territories may present administrative challenges.
- Limited Immediate Funding Increase: The bill's funding increase is contingent on future budget increases, which are not guaranteed.
- Potential for Unintended Consequences: As with any legislative change, there is a possibility of unintended consequences that may require future adjustments.
- Dependence on Federal Funding: The territories may become more reliant on federal funding for employment services.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble), which allows Congress to enact laws that promote the well-being of the nation, including its territories. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. This bill falls under the umbrella of providing for the general welfare by attempting to improve employment opportunities in US territories.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).